The press service of the Spanish football club Barcelona commented on a photo posted by Spanish winger Lamin Yamal after reaching the Euro 2024 final. Recall that after the semi-final match of the 2024 European Championship against France (2:1), the 16-year-old striker of the Spanish national team "La Furia Roja" posted an unusual message on his social media page, where in the photo the young Argentine striker Lionel Messi is holding little Yamal in a swaddling clothes.
“We are delighted to see Lamin Yamal reach the European Championship final at such a young age. His rapid rise to stardom is testament to his incredible talent and determination,” a Barcelona spokesperson said.
“The photo with Lionel Messi is a wonderful moment that captures the passing of the torch from one generation to the next. Messi has long been an idol and inspiration to young players like Yamal, and it’s heartwarming to see them connect in this way.
The spokesperson went on to praise Yamal's performances throughout the tournament, which garnered a lot of attention and praise from fans and pundits alike.
“Lamin has been absolutely sensational for Spain at Euro 2024. His speed, skill and goalscoring ability have been crucial to their success, and he has shown maturity beyond his years on the biggest stage.
“Barcelona has always prided itself on encouraging and developing young Spanish talent, and Lamin Yamal is certainly one of the most exciting prospects of recent years. We look forward to welcoming him back to Camp Nou after the tournament and supporting his continued growth and development.”
The photo of Messi and Yamal has gone viral on social media, with fans praising the touching moment between the Argentina legend and the Spanish rising star.
“This image is simply iconic,” one fan commented. “To see Messi, one of the greatest of all time, embrace the next generation of talent like Yamal is truly special. It’s a passing of the torch that will inspire young players around the world.”
Another fan wrote: "Yamal is living every child's dream - not only reaching the Euro final at 16, but also sharing that moment with his idol Messi. This is the stuff of legends."
